Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018
Comprehensive Income Net Of Tax [Abstract]
Net income	$ 8,044	$ 9,054	$ 17,733	$ 21,318
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(5,897)	(563)	(3,444)	(10,098)
Recognized net actuarial gain (net of tax provision of $32 and $35 for the three months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively, and net of tax provision of $95 and $94 for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively).	108	116	294	299
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax	(5,789)	(447)	(3,150)	(9,799)
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	93	0	54	0
Comprehensive income attributable to Preformed Line Products Company shareholders	$ 2,162	$ 8,607	$ 14,529	$ 11,519